Michael Matthews

Michael Matthews is a Professor in the Departments of Biomedical Engineering and Chemical Engineering at the University of South Carolina's Molinaroli College of Engineering and Computing. Serving as Vice Dean of Engineering & Computing and Associate Vice President for Research since 2021, he administers research programs and national laboratory collaborations. His academic journey includes department chairmanship (2007-2011) and a tenure-track position since joining USC in 1994 after completing his Ph.D. at Texas A&M University.

• Education: Ph.D. (1986), M.S. (1984), B.S. (1979) from Texas A&M University

Matthews' research spans thermodynamics, biomedical engineering, and green chemistry, focusing on supercritical CO2 applications for tissue decellularization, hydrogen storage in chemical hydrides, and environmentally conscious manufacturing. His work has attracted over $10 million in funding and resulted in approximately 70 peer-reviewed publications. Recent projects include bioconjugate hydrogels for regenerative medicine and novel graduate education frameworks.

His publications reveal interdisciplinary trends in supercritical fluid technology, hydrogen energy systems, and engineering pedagogy. Articles emphasize biomedical CO2 applications, thermodynamic modeling, and educational innovations like the Research Communications Studio model.

Scientific Awards

• Fellow, American Chemical Society
• Fellow, American Institute of Chemical Engineers
• Mungo Graduate Teaching Award (2020)
• Joseph Gibbons Teaching Award (2018-2020)
• Sloan Faculty Mentor of the Year (2011)
• ASEE William Corcoran Award (2007)

Matthews has mentored numerous graduate researchers and led initiatives like the statewide SC: SUPPORTED coalition for underrepresented precalculus students. He developed interdisciplinary courses in biomedical engineering professional ethics and critical thinking for both undergraduate and graduate populations.